As the school summer holidays approach, families are eagerly anticipating their time away. However, burglars are also looking forward to the next couple of months for different reasons. According to a recent study conducted by 247 Blinds on home security measures and burglaries, the month of August has been recorded as one of the highest for spikes in break-in incidents. With many people away on vacation, this time of year can be a cause for concern for homeowners.
The research reveals that 42% of UK residents are more worried about being burgled in 2023 than in previous years. Of course, home security is the last thing you want to think about while you’re sunbathing on the beach. But fear not! 247 Blinds has partnered with home security specialists Simplisafe to share some tips on how to avoid break-ins and relax while you’re away.
Firstly, it’s important not to shout about your holiday on social media. Jonathan Wall, UK general manager at Simplisafe, advises against broadcasting your absence on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Additionally, he suggests keeping valuables out of view from windows to deter potential burglars.
Another tip is to set up a Keepsafe at the post office. Jonathan recommends asking the Post Office to hold any mail you may receive during your time away. This prevents a buildup of letters that burglars can use to determine that you haven’t been home in a while. It also provides an added layer of security by keeping your post in a safe space.
Locking all windows and doors properly is another crucial step. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of ensuring all entrances to your home are securely locked before going to bed or leaving the house. This denies thieves easy opportunities and is especially vital in areas with higher levels of break-ins, such as student-heavy neighborhoods.
Investing in home security gadgets can also be a great deterrent. Jonathan suggests installing a bell box, an outdoor siren, which signals the presence of a burglar alarm inside the house. Some alarms are connected to professional monitoring centers that can request police response. Video doorbells are also recommended as visible deterrents and can capture crucial evidence for the police. Placing both visible and hidden outdoor security cameras adds an extra layer of deterrence and ensures footage is captured even if the visible cameras are targeted.
Lastly, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, highlights the benefits of installing motorized blinds. These blinds, also known as smart blinds, create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property less attractive to potential burglars. They are operated by a small motorized unit that opens and closes the blinds, and they can be set on a timer. Not only are they efficient and use minimal power, but they also look like regular roller blinds, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken steps to protect your home. Stay safe and have a fantastic summer holiday!